Texas heatwave resulted in high electricity demand

This month, Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend have been under extreme heat advisory with the temperature reaching the hundreds and the heat index well over 110. On Tuesday,  August 13, ERCOT (The Electric Reliability Council of Texas) declared an Energy Emergency Alert due to the extreme weather.

“High temperatures have resulted in record electricity demand over the last few days and may result in a new record today,” said ERCOT CEO Bill Magness, “Consumers can help lower energy consumption by taking some simple actions between the hours of 3 and 7 p.m.”

Since 5 p.m. on August 13th, 2019, the Energy Emergency Alert has been canceled. However, you can reduce the amount of energy consumed by your home through these simple rules:

• Set thermostat 2 to 3 degrees higher during peak hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
• Set thermostat to higher temp when the house is empty.
• Use plug-in fans.
• Only run large appliances (washing machine, dishwasher, etc.) in the morning or after 7 p.m.
• To make food during peak hours, use microwave or slow cooker.
• Close blinds and drapes during peak hours.
• Run pool pumps in the early morning or overnight. Shut off between 4 and 6 p.m.

For more tips about conservation, visit www.ercot.com/about/conservation or http://powertosavetexas.org/

– NEC Co-op Energy, Electricity Company in Texas